Kristoffer Tripplaar/AP
ESPN executive Norby Williamson is stepping down after nearly four decades with the company, the New York Post reported Friday.
According to sources, Williamson and ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus “did not share a vision that aligned with ESPN long-term strategy.” Williamson was famously at odds with Pat McAfee, who accused the executive of leaking information to the media in an effort to “sabotage” his show.
McAfee — who’s touted his strong relationships with Magnus and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro on multiple occasions — also claimed that Williamson had always shown disdain toward him. Years before McAfee’s show was added to the ESPN lineup, the former NFL punter was scheduled to meet with Williamson. Instead, he said, Williamson didn’t even show up.
“Almost 40 years ago in 1985, I was so very fortunate to be offered an opportunity at ESPN,” Williamson said in a memo obtained by The Athletic. “Due to the exceptional hard work, creativity and commitment of the people of ESPN, and to a much lesser extent my contributions, I’d like to think we’ve left our great company in a far better place than we found it.”
The Athletic has obtained Burke Magnus’ memo announcing the move. pic.twitter.com/zSmILBDw6o
— Andrew Marchand (@AndrewMarchand) April 5, 2024
Though Williamson and McAfee didn’t see eye-to-eye, sources stressed that his departure “was not at McAfee’s behest.” Due to the creative differences between Williamson and Magnus, the move was viewed as inevitable.
Williamson was under contract until the Super Bowl in early 2027. The search to replace him will begin immediately.
